Replacing a full set of teeth usually brings up many questions, like:
- How will my new teeth look?
- Will I be able to eat comfortably?
- Will my dentist do a good job?
- What will they cost?
- How will having new teeth affect my life?
The first dentures available at a reasonable cost were made from Indian Rubber, called vulcanite.
We know how missing teeth affects our quality of life:
- embarrassment in social situations
- depression related to poor self image and low self esteem
- poor nutrition
- poorly digested food
Healthy, beautiful teeth are a sign of good health and good self-care. We look for beautiful smiles in our partners, friends and other people we met in the course of our daily lives. A beautiful smile is something we should also want for ourselves.
Dentures
Traditional dentures have come a long way since they became available to the general public, at a reasonable price, in the late 1800s.
It is now possible to get traditional dentures and ‘face lift’ dentures that improve the appearance of the ‘sunken look’ which occurs when bone is lost because of missing teeth. There are still some drawbacks to traditional dentures, like the top plate that can impede taste, and daily removal and care. Because they sit on top of the gums, they can cause irritation and do not stimulate bone growth like All-on-4s.
Traditional dentures are still a good alternative for replacing teeth and Dr. Stone loves making them for his patients.
All-on-4s
All-on-4s look and feel like natural teeth
All-on-4s, like traditional dentures, replace a complete set of missing top or bottom teeth. They have the advantage, over traditional dentures, of looking and feeling more like natural teeth and they don’t have to removed for care. All-on-4s are cared for in the same way that you would care for natural teeth.
The four Dental Implants, to which the teeth are attached, actually stimulate bone growth in the jaw.
Here’s a look at some of the differences between All-on-4s and Dentures:
|
All-on-4s |
Dentures |
| Look and feel like natural teeth | Top Denture covers upper palate and may cause some discomfort |
| Fixed in place, so do not rub against gums | Fixative used to prevent rubbing against and irritating gums |
| Are permanently placed and can only be removed by dentist | Must be removed for daily cleaning |
| Allow for increased ability to bite, chew and choose a varied diet | Not always stable when biting into food; may limit diet options |
| Bone is preserved in the jaw | Bone is lost because of missing teeth |
| Cared for in the same way you care for natural teeth | Daily care with special cleaners needed |
| Do not interfere with chewing or speech | Upper palate or loose fit can hinder chewing and impair speech |
| Insurance may cover some, but not all of the procedure | May be covered by insurance |
The decision to choose All-on-4s or Dentures is a very personal one. Most health people are good candidates for All-on-4s. Dr. Stone, along with his on-site laboratory staff, enjoy making both All-on-4s and Dentures. A free assessment, and a meeting with Dr. Stone to discuss your options, can help you decide if All-on-4s are right for you.
About Dr. John C. Stone, DDS
Dr. Stone teaches dental implant therapy to dentists in two different locations: Atlantic Coast Dental Research Clinic at Palm Beach College and Broward Dental Research Clinic at Broward College. He is a specialist in tooth replacement, a Prosthodontist, and has been placing dental implants surgically since 1975.
